Categories
Sociology of Law

Title: Examining the Rutherford County Cases through the Philosophical Lenses of Evolutionary Theory and Natural Law

INSTRUCTIONS:  
1.  Review the philosophical approaches to law that we have discussed in this 
class.  The 2 that you will be using in the judicial approach, procedure, 
decision-making and outcomes that were overseen by Judge Donna A. Scott is:
1. Evolutionary Theory. You must read powerpoint (Lecture Notes 4 evolutionary 
theories) and whatever other research you fine
2. Natural Law (Lecture notes 3 in files and whatever other information you find.)
2.  In about 1.5 (max) pages each, discuss the major tenants of each philosophy of law, including the following:
the origin of law
the role/function of law
the role of the state (create, enact, enforce, change)
Impact of law on Morality/moral boundary-setting
Rights of the accused
Rights of victims
3.  In about 1.5 pages each, examine and discuss the Rutherford County cases 
through each philosophical lens. The 4 episodes of the
Rutherford County podcast:
Episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YwsmMoB-vo&t=2s
Episode 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUsKJagg5Co&t=17s
Episode 3:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NGLQsJpFyk&t=12s
Episode 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKr35dpljsU&t=190s
. YOU MUST LISTEN TO EVERY EPISODE!! Consider the entire legal process in your 
response, including the following:
The ways in which officials see their roles regarding the social control of children in Rutherford County
The ways in which officers interpreted and enacted the laws
The ways in which children and their families were treated during court 
proceedings. 
The reaction of Rutherford County residents to this type of judicial decision-
making (as reflected through Judge Scott’s long elected career and the aftermath as explained by county officials)
Details:
Do not lead with the statement, “I feel…”  Rather, build an evidence-based, logical argument that examines the Rutherford County through the lens of 2 philosophical perspectives.
Final:  4 pages 
Due on Wed. April 24 by 10:30 AM
NEED A AI AND TURNITIN REPORT